October 23-25, 2025 | In Person | Columbus, Ohio
2025 OAAPN Conference
Registration for OAAPN’s 34th Annual Statewide Conference, October 23 – 25 at the Hyatt Regency and Greater Columbus Convention Center in downtown Columbus closes on October 12.
This year, we are excited to welcome keynote speaker and AANP President, Dr. Valerie Fuller, PhD, DNP, AGACNP-BC, FNP-BC, FNAP, FAANP, in addition to a wide range of new speakers and topics. Join us for a growing list of dynamic and engaging presentations and workshops delivering over 18 hours of continuing education.
Many favorites are also returning such as the PAC Silent Auction, poster presentations, Thursday evening welcome reception and a bustling exhibit hall, which will be returning to Battelle Grand in the GCCC for 2025.
We are excited to bring Ohio APRNs together in education, advocacy, networking, and fun!
Event Program
This activity is approved for 18.8 contact hour(s) of continuing education (which includes 6.75 hour(s) of pharmacology) by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners®. Activity ID# 25087467. This activity was planned in accordance with AANP Accreditation Standards and Policies.
THURSDAY
Thursday, October 23 (8:00am – 12:00pm)
Intra-articular and Peri-articular Injections
Larry Rosenberger, APRN-CNP
Julie Melendez, APRN-CNP
Learn landmark based injection techniques for commonly occurring acute and chronic orthopedic conditions.
View session objectives.
| 1. Discuss Common Musculoskeletal pathologies and indications for intraarticular and periarticular injections. 2. (RX) Discuss Pharmacological Principles of common injectables including local anesthetics and corticosteroids. (15-20 minutes) 3. Demonstrate proper intraarticular and periarticular injection techniques. |
12 Lead ECG Interpretation
Tamara Torres, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
View session objectives.
| 1. Adopt a systematic approach to 12-Lead Electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation. 2. Recognize abnormal ECG findings. 3. Apply a systematic approach to 12-Lead Electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation. |
Basic Suturing
Tonya Fulk, APRN-CNP
Andrew Berger, APRN-CNP
Dominique James, APRN-CNP
Denise Hutton, APRN-CNP
Kathy Praisler-Wood, APRN-CNP
Aimee Larouere, APRN-CNP
The workshop covers instrument basics such as suture types and selection, proper loading of the needle, wound assessment, local anesthesia, aftercare, and documentation. Participants will have the opportunity to practice basic suturing techniques.
View session objectives.
| 1. Describe and review normal wound healing. 2. Describe and review wound closure techniques. 3. Describe and review the fundamentals of wound preparation including the prevention of infection. 4. Discuss & review use of antimicrobial cleaners & oral antibiotic medications for lacerations. 5. (RX) Describe & review the use of local anesthesia, mechanism of action, dosages, precautions and adverse reactions 6. Demonstrate the use of a local anesthetic. 7. (RX) Describe and review techniques of basic suturing & simple knot tying. |
Thursday, October 23 (12:00pm – 1:00pm)
Sanofi Lunch Symposium
Thursday, October 23 (1:00pm – 5:00pm)
Minor Office Procedures
Tonya Fulk, APRN-CNP
Andrew Berger, APRN-CNP
Dominique James, APRN-CNP
Denise Hutton, APRN-CNP
Kathy Praisler-Wood, APRN-CNP
Aimee Larouere, APRN-CNP
This course covers minor medical office procedures that are common to most offices. This will include both didactic and hands on procedures. It will include topics such as ingrown toenail resection, nailbed repair, nail removal, trephination, orthopedic procedures: nurse maid elbow, minor toe or finger dislocations and digital blocks. There will be I & D and paronychia procedures and treatment. It will also include common eye problems and management as well as foreign body removal in the nose and ear. Lastly the course will cover both shave and punch biopsy, and cryotherapy.
View session objectives.
| 1. Discuss procedures for resection of ingrown toenails, nailbed repair, nail removal 2. Describe fundamentals & treatment of subungual hematoma including complications of and aftercare for nail trephination 3. Describe the causes, presentation & treatment of nursemaid’s elbow in children 4. Discuss and review procedures for reduction of minor finger/toe dislocations 5. Describe the fundamentals of incision and drainage (I&D) to include complications and aftercare 6. Describe the fundamentals of paronychia to include drainage, complications, and aftercare 7. Describe management and treatment of abnormal findings on eye exam. 8. Describe indications & contraindications to Skin and Soft tissue biopsies as well as possible complications and aftercare 9. Describe indications & contraindications fo cryo treatments as well as possible complications and aftercare 10. Discuss procedures for foreign body removal of the body, nose, and ear 11. (RX) Discuss procedures for digital block to include medications used and onset of action (RX) |
Neuro & Pulmonary Imaging
Hilary Petersen, MPAS, PA-C
Tina Resser, MSN, ACNP-BC, FNP-BC, CNRN
This 2 hour workshop will provide a high level review of common imaging tests used in pulmonary and neurologic medicine and how to apply this knowledge in clinical setting.
View session objectives.
| 1. Discuss common complaints from pulmonary and neurologic standpoint and determine which imaging tests apply. 2. Discuss the imaging modalities pertinent to neurologic and pulmonary disorders. 3. Discuss basic radiology principles for common imaging modalities. |
Optimizing Revenue with Correct Documentation & Coding
Sally Streiber,BS, MBA, CPC, CEMC
Learn the fundamentals of Evaluation and Management as well as procedure, preventive visit and Medicare Wellness documentation and coding. This course covers modifiers, “G” codes and the basics of diagnosis code selection as well as understanding Hierarchical Condition Categories and their importance to your practice.
View session objectives.
| 1. Discuss Documentation, Coding and Reimbursement for Evaluation and Management Codes 2. Discuss G2211, G0136, G0545 Visit Complexity, Social Determinants of Health, Inpatient Infectious Diseases coding 3. Discuss AMA Evaluation and Management Coding including Ambulatory, Inpatient, Nursing Facility and Home/Residence Visits 4. Discuss General Documentation and Coding Information and procedures 5. Discuss Coding for Preventive Services, Medicare Wellness Visits, and Telemedicine 6. Discuss Diagnosis Coding and Basics of Hierarchical Condition Categories 7. Discuss Data Mining and Benchmarking |
Thursday, October 23 (5:30pm – 8:30pm)
Welcome Reception, Exhibits, & Poster Presentations
FRIDAY
Friday, October 24 (7:00am – 8:00am)
Ipsen Breakfast Symposium
Friday, October 24 (General Session 8:00am – 12:00pm)
Awards and Scholarships
8:00am – 8:15 am
Advancing the Role of the Nurse Practitioner: Battling Misinformation, Disinformation and How We Can Help Educate the Public
8:15 am – 9:30 am
Valerie Fuller, PhD, DNP, AGACNP-BC, FNP-BC, FNAP, FAANP
This will be a 60-minute presentation on misinformation, disinformation, social media and how nursing and the nursing profession are portrayed in the media. Examples are provided and specific strategies on how to advance and elevate the profession are provided.
View session objectives.
| 1. Discuss misinformation and disinformation and how it affects the NP profession 2. Identify at least 3 ways NPs can help educate the public and advance the role |
Coffee Break in Exhibit Hall
9:45am – 10:45 am
AANP Federal Updates
9:30am – 9:45 am
Valerie Fuller, PhD, DNP, AGACNP-BC, FNP-BC, FNAP, FAANP
This session will provide an overview of federal priorities and legislation of interest to Nurse Practitioners.
View session objectives.
| 1. Discuss federal priorities and pending legislation of interest to Nurse Practitioners |
Ohio Government Relations Update: Where We Are, Where We Are Going, and How We Are Getting There
10:45am – 12:00pm
Summer Davis, APRN-CNP
Mandi Cafasso, DNP, APRN-CNP
The government relations committee directors will share legislative updates, where we are, where we are going, and how we will get there. We will have our lobbyist for content expertise and answer any questions.
View session objectives.
| 1. Discuss current Ohio bill introduction process and how the legislative process navigates in Ohio. 2. Discuss recent Ohio rule changes secondary to recent Global Signature Authority bill passing and how it may impact their clinical practice. 3. Gain knowledge on how to get involved with local advocacy to be a voice for policy change and how building those relationships make positive impact with consistency. |
Friday, October 24 (12:00pm – 1:00pm)
Lunch and Exhibits
Chapter Leader Luncheon
Friday, October 24 (Breakout Session 1: 1:00pm – 2:00pm)
Functional Medicine: Root Cause Medicine
Naila Goldenberg, MD
Genetics are a blueprint, not a destiny. This session will explore the impacts of functional medicine From symptom suppression to root cause resolution with special focus on the impacts, prevention, and treatment for chronic stress, sleep deprivation, hormone imbalance, and toxicities. Explore how lifestyle, environment, and mindset influence gene expression and the use of genetic insights to personalize prevention and treatment. The future of medicine is functional, integrative and collaborative care. It empowers patients through education and lifestyle medicine. Root-cause resolution is key to long-term wellness.
View session objectives.
1. Discuss functional medicine and its application in traditional healthcare
2. Discuss health disruptors of the nervous, endocrine and immune systems
3. Apply techniques for stress reduction and resilience building to support the care of their patients
4. Discuss functional strategies for health improvement”
Community Health: Addressing Health Related Social Needs
Kendra Smith, AICP MPH MSUS
Addressing Health Related Social Needs equips advanced practice nursing professionals with knowledge and skills to identify, assess, and respond to the social factors that impact health outcomes. Through case studies, interactive discussion, and evidence-based tools, participants will learn how to integrate social needs screening and intervention into practice, build community partnerships, and lead system-level change to advance health equity. This session empowers participants to take actionable steps toward reducing disparities and improving health and well-being.
View session objectives.
| 1. Identify and explain key health related social needs and their impact on individual and population health outcomes 2. Discuss the intersection of health-related social needs and clinical care 3. Initiate and facilitate conversations with patients and families about social needs. 4. Evaluate and coordinate referrals to appropriate community-based resources 5. Design a practice-based intervention or quality improvement plan to address identified HRSN’s within the clinical or community setting. 6. Advocate for local, state, or federal policies that promote health equity and improve access to resources addressing HRSNs. |
Exploring Options for Treatment Resistant Depression
Mike Czaika, MPAS, PA-C
This talk offers a practical, up-to-date overview of treatment-resistant depression (TRD), covering how it’s defined, current FDA-approved interventions, and pharmacologic therapies. The goal is to leave with a clearer framework for making practical treatment decisions and managing complex cases with improved confidence.
View session objectives.
| 1. Define treatment resistant depression across contexts 2. Identify and differentiate between clinical, guideline, and insurance definitions of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and describe how these impact treatment planning, documentation, and access to care. 3. Describe and compare current FDA-approved interventional treatments 4. Discuss the mechanisms, efficacy data, safety profiles, and workflow considerations for rTMS, iTBS, SAINT, ECT, and intranasal esketamine. 5. Identify emerging treatments and medications for TRD 6. Briefly review 4 novel existing/emerging therapies (e.g., psilocybin-assisted therapy, GABA-A modulators, MST, focused ultrasound, stellate ganglion block) 7. Apply a stepwise, real-world approach to TRD management- 8. Use an evidence-informed framework to determine next treatment steps for patients with TRD, including review of current guidelines for TRD |
Friday, October 24 (Breakout Session 2: 2:15pm – 3:15pm)
Silent Auction Closes at 2:15pm
Facial Dermatologic Concerns in Primary Care: When to Treat, When to Refer and When to Reassure
Erin Hennessey, DNP, APRN-CNP
Primary care is the first stop for patients with skin concerns. This discussion will help you identify common facial lesions and concerns that patients come in with to get “checked out,” how to treat them pharmacologically and nonpharmacologically, and when it is appropriate to follow up with primary care versus plastic surgery or dermatology.
View session objectives.
| 1) Identify common facial lesions, concerns, and pathology seen in primary care. 2) Describe pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatments for dermatological facial lesions and pathologic concerns in primary care. 3) Determine which lesions/pathologic concerns should be referred in, which can be managed in primary care. |
Ohio APRN Law Update 2025
Jeana Singleton, J.D.
Join OAAPN’s general counsel, Jeana Singleton, for a comprehensive update on legal and regulatory changes impacting APRN practice in 2025. Participants will review core practice requirements outlined in the Ohio Nurse Practice Act, examine recent updates to state laws, administrative rules, and Ohio Board of Nursing guidance, and explore the most common violations leading to disciplinary action. The course will also address frequently asked questions from Ohio APRNs to clarify current legal expectations and support compliant practice.
Criteria for CE: Attendance for full session & completion of session evaluation. No one with the ability to control the content of this activity has a relevant financial relationship with an ineligible company. This continuing education activity was approved by the Ohio Nurses Association, an Ohio Board of Nursing Approver. (OBN-001-91)
View session objectives.
| 1. Discuss key APRN practice requirements under Ohio Nurse Practice Act. 2. Identify updates to the Ohio Nurse Practice Act and corresponding rules and Ohio Board of Nursing guidance. 3. Address frequently asked questions submitted by Ohio APRNs concerning the Ohio Nurse Practice Act and APRN practice in Ohio. |
Indications for Pulmonary Interventions: Overview of Bronchoscopy, Mechanical Cough Assist Devices and Endobronchial Valve Therapy for Chronic Lung Disease
Traci Phillips, DNP, APRN-CNP
An in-depth overview of interventional pulmonary procedures will be discussed including indications for bronchoscopy and a review of navigational bronchoscopy techniques for lung biopsy. Discussion on mechanical cough assist devices for bronchiectasis and endobronchial valve therapy for severe emphysema will be reviewed with the intent to prepare primary care providers with early identification of patients who may benefit from these therapies.
View session objectives.
| 1. Identify the appropriate treatment options for bronchiectasis based on clinical exam, diagnostic imaging and patient risk factors. 2. Discuss current mechanical airway clearance devices and identify appropriate patient population for therapy. 3. Summarize current guidelines for endobronchial valve therapy. 4. Discuss indications for bronchoscopy including navigational bronchoscopy techniques and endobronchial ultrasound. |
Friday, October 24 (Breakout Session 3: 3:30pm – 4:30pm)
From Aura to Aftermath: The Migraine Experience
Jesse McClain, APRN-CNS
Discover the science behind migraine from the earliest aura to the lingering aftermath. This session explores cutting-edge treatments, including CGRP-targeted therapies and emerging alternatives, while clarifying how migraine differs from other headache disorders.
View session objectives.
| 1. Define and distinguish migraine from other primary and secondary headache disorders 2. Describe the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying migraine, including neurovascular, inflammatory, and neurotransmitter-related pathways. 3. Summarize traditional migraine management strategies, including abortive and preventive pharmacologic approaches. 4. Explain the role of CGRP-targeted therapies in the prevention and acute treatment of migraine. 5. Discuss emerging and alternative treatment modalities for migraine, including neuromodulation, lifestyle interventions, and novel pharmacologic agents. |
Foundations in Integrative Medicine: Practical Approaches to Supplements, Nutraceuticals, and Testing
Anita Stechschulte, DNP, APRN-CNP, IFMCP
Discover why symptom-based care often falls short, and how a systems approach can unlock lasting health by addressing root imbalances in body, mind, and spirit. This presentation will reveal the latest evidence in integrative medicine to support safe, effective supplement and nutraceutical use, and demystify integrative lab testing for common health concerns, empowering you to confidently interpret results and personalize your patient care. Walk away with practical strategies to seamlessly integrate supplements, lifestyle changes, and advanced testing into truly patient-centered, root-cause medicine.
View session objectives.
| 1. Identify the limitations of symptom-based care and the value of a systems approach. 2. Explore the evidence for safe and effective use of supplements and nutraceuticals in clinical practice. 3. Discuss the role and interpretation of integrative laboratory testing in common patient concerns. 4. Understand how to integrate supplements, lifestyle, and testing into patient-centered, root-cause care. |
Modernization of Home Sleep Testing and New and Emerging Therapies for Sleep Apnea
Asim Roy, MD
This session will review recent advances in home sleep testing technology and explore emerging therapies for obstructive sleep apnea, including neurostimulation, oral devices, and pharmacologic options.It will also discuss patient selection strategies and evaluate how these innovations can improve adherence and clinical outcomes.
View session objectives.
| 1. Describe recent advances in home sleep testing technology, including improved diagnostic accuracy, integration with digital health platforms, and patient-centered design. 2. Compare and contrast traditional positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy with new and emerging treatment modalities 3. Discuss clinical criteria for selecting appropriate patients for home sleep testing and for matching individual patients to novel therapeutic options based on phenotyping and comorbidity profiles. |
Friday, October 24 (Breakout Session 4: 4:45pm – 5:45pm)
Asthma Update – Smart Therapy (Single Maintenance and Reliever Therapy)
Mark Washam, APRN-CNP
Confused about SMART therapy for Asthma! You are NOT alone! Together we will look at the new(ish) guidelines for maintenance, and rescue therapy for asthma in pediatric and adult patients. SMART is the use of a single inhaler containing the combination of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and formoterol, a specific long-acting bronchodilator, for both maintenance and quick relief therapy (single maintenance and reliever therapy.)
View session objectives.
| 1. (RX) Describe the mechanism and rationale behind SMART therapy, including the role of inhaled corticosteroids and formoterol (Rx) 2. Identify at least three key updates in the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) and National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) guidelines related to SMART therapy. 3. (Rx) Explain how SMART therapy can reduce asthma-related morbidity and mortality. |
When Medications Add Pounds: A Key Factor in Chronic Disease Treatment
Amy Laktash, MSN, APRN-CNP,FASMBS-IH
Struggling with patients gaining weight despite your best efforts? This dynamic session will uncover the top culprits of drug-induced weight gain including antipsychotics, antidepressants, antidiabetic agents, hormones, and other obesogenic medications giving practical, evidence-based tools to prevent and manage these effects in everyday primary care. Walk away with clear strategies to identify at-risk patients, optimize treatment plans, and confidently guide lifestyle counseling to improve outcomes and keep your patients on track.
View session objectives.
| 1. Understand how medications contribute to weight gain. 2. Identify medication classes linked to weight gain. 3. Evaluate the health impact of drug-induced weight gain. 4. Explore strategies for managing weight gain associated with medications. 5. Consider weight-neutral medication alternatives |
Concussive Rehab for the Adolescent Athlete
Dan Norman, PT, SCS, CSCS, CIDN, FRC
This presentation will cover the multiple systems that can be affected by a concussion and how these systems are evaluated. This presentation should also educate the audience to the techniques and approaches by a specialized physical therapist that address the involved systems and how they are evaluated for return to sport.
View session objectives.
| 1. Identify the different structures and systems that can be affected by a concussion 2. Demonstrate the tools and strategies used in sports rehab to identify compromise in the above-mentioned systems 3. Discuss the importance of specialized rehab for concussed adolescent athletes to prevent prolonged recovery 4. Discuss the potential dangers of a second blow following a concussion 5. Discuss the specific tests and criteria that must be met for a concussed athlete to return to sport |
SATURDAY
Saturday, October 25 (7:00am – 8:00am)
Abbvie Breakfast Symposium
Saturday, October 25 (General Session: Pharmacology Updates 8:00am – 12:00pm)
Vaccines Across the Lifespan
Kevin Fuschetto, PharmD, BCACP, BC-ADM
This session will focus on the changing landscape of immunizations throughout the lifespan. Participants will gain knowledge about the pharmacology of selected immunizations, learn about recent updates, and practice the application of the immunization schedules.
View session objectives.
| 1. (RX) Discuss the pharmacology for selected vaccines (RX) 2. (RX) Describe current evidence regarding vaccine preventable diseases and selected vaccines (RX) 3. Discuss recent updates to the ACIP immunization schedules 4. (RX) Apply current immunization schedules to make patient-specific recommendations (RX) |
New Medication Updates
Jessica Emshoff, PharmD
Chris Paxos, PharmD
This session will review four new FDA medication approvals: xanomline-trospium, suzegetrine, gepotidacin, and aprocitentan. Each offers a novel way to treat schizophrenia, pain, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, and hypertension.
View session objectives.
| 1. (RX) Discuss the clinical pharmacology for each new medication approval. (RX) 2. (RX) Describe the primary literature supporting FDA approval of each medication. (RX) 3. (RX) Evaluate the potential place in therapy of each medication.(RX) |
Molecules of the Moment: Biologics in Clinical Practice
Ashley Conger, PharmD
This presentation offers an overview of biologic therapies, including definitions of biologics versus biosimilars and recent changes in naming conventions. It covers the pharmacology of commonly used biologics for managing autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. Key safety considerations, adverse effects, and monitoring parameters are reviewed to support safe and effective patient care.
View session objectives.
| 1. Define biologics and differentiate between biologic drug classes. 2. Recognize biologic and biosimilar naming conventions. 3. Identify common biologic agents and their mechanisms of action in the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. 4. Recall common adverse reactions, monitoring parameters, and safety concerns associated with biologic agents. |
Pharm Q&A Panel
All PharmD Speakers
Our Sponsors
Thank You to our Symposium Sponsors!
Thursday Lunch Symposium Sponsor
Friday Breakfast Symposium Sponsor
Saturday Breakfast Symposium Sponsor
Thank You to these Additional Sponsors!
Registration Info
* There will be no on-site registration.
Registration closes October 12.
- Full Conference
$395 members | $495 non-members | $195 OAAPN student members
Includes Thursday evening reception and poster presentations, Friday breakfast (additional registration required) and lunch, general and breakout sessions, and Saturday breakfast (additional registration required) and general session
- Friday Only
$240 members | $300 non-members | $120 OAAPN student members
Includes Friday breakfast (additional registration required) and lunch, general and breakout sessions
- Saturday Only
$150 members | $175 non-members | $75 OAAPN student members
Includes Saturday breakfast (additional registration required) and general session
- Pre-conference Only
Includes continental breakfast, the workshop(s) you register for (workshops are priced individually), and Thursday lunch (additional registration required)
Hotel & Parking Info
Hotel Info
If you have not already made your hotel reservation for the conference, book your room at the OAAPN special rate of $180/night. The deadline to reserve is October 1.
Parking Info
Due to staffing shortages, the Hyatt Regency cannot guarantee that valet parking will be available to those staying at the Hyatt Regency. Please refer to the options below for self-parking options.